Trial by Jury and the Sorcerer

The Light Opera Theatre of Sacramento presents a unique double-bill of Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas: Trial by Jury and The Sorcerer at the Sierra 2 Center’s 24th Street Theater from August 11, 2023 through August 20, 2023. Stage direction by Robert Vann, music direction by Anne-Marie Endres, with the cast and live orchestra conducted under the baton of Glenn Disney.

Trial By Jury is a lighthearted satire of the legal system where a judge and jury consider a “breach of promise of marriage” lawsuit filed by a jilted bride against her groom. Modern-day jurists will appreciate this comic take on their profession while ordinary theatergoers will revel in its rollercoaster-like plot and exquisite melodies.

The second operetta, The Sorcerer, is based on Gilbert’s Christmas story called “An Elixir of Love.” The Sorcerer tells the story of Alexis, a young man who believes love can level all ranks and social distinctions, and is the “true source of every earthly joy.” To prove his point, he hires a sorcerer to distribute a love potion to his whole village. As one might expect, not everything goes according to plan.

Founded in 1982 by Mike and Debbie Baad and Dolores Allen, LOTS has become the Sacramento Valley’s premier theatrical company for producing the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. LOTS draws its cast from highly talented all-volunteer performers from throughout the capital region who share in the company’s passion for presenting G&S works to those who have had a lifelong passion for the material as well as introducing new generations to these timeless classics.